THE steam gala at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway attracted bumper crowds as people flocked to Torfaen for the three-day event.

Held annually, the heritage railway ran journeys along the lines from Friday, June 24 to Sunday, June 26 evoking memories of the golden age of steam.

The volunteer-run group brought in a number of special engines for the weekend, some of which returned to South Wales for another trip along the tracks.

“The weekend went really well with around 800 passengers carried over the three days,” said Alex Hinshelwood.

“All five locomotives worked well hauling our passenger and freight trains. It was a real show and all the passengers and volunteers had a great time.”

Although located in Blaenavon, the three-day event attracted vintage trains from all over the UK.

“One of our visiting engines has departed for its home in Devon while the other, the 1501, is staying with us for the next two weekends including our 1940s weekend over July 9 and 10,” he added.

“This will be the last chance to see this engine, nicknamed the 'Raging Bull', in South Wales.”

The Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway will be running a themed running weekend on Saturday, July 9 – which will include a 1940s style dance in the evening – and Sunday, July 10.

Visit pontypool-and-blaenavon.co.uk/#/home for more information.